Purple hull peas are a Southern pea, or cowpea, variety known for thriving in hot weather. Unlike common garden peas, these legumes are warm-season annuals that flourish during the summer. Establishing the correct planting distance is important for maximizing the harvest and maintaining plant health. This guide provides specific instructions on how far apart to plant purple hull peas to ensure optimal growth and yield.
Essential Pre-Planting Conditions
Purple hull peas must be planted only after the danger of frost has passed, as they are highly sensitive to cool temperatures. The ideal time for the first planting is typically four weeks after the last average frost date.
Soil temperature is a more reliable indicator than air temperature for planting. Seeds should be sown when the soil consistently maintains a minimum temperature of 60°F. For best germination, the soil temperature should be 70°F or higher.
A location that receives full sun exposure throughout the day is necessary for a strong harvest. These peas perform best in well-drained, slightly acidic sandy loams. Seeds should be placed at a depth of 1 to 1.5 inches, planting slightly deeper in lighter, sandier soils.
Determining Optimal Spacing
The precise planting distance for purple hull peas depends heavily on the variety’s growth habit, which falls into bush, semi-vining, or vining categories. Bush varieties, such as ‘Top Pick’ or ‘Quick Pick,’ are compact and self-supporting, requiring less overall space. Semi-vining types, like ‘Coronet,’ have short runners and need slightly more room to spread out.
When planting bush varieties in traditional rows, seeds should initially be sown 2 to 3 inches apart within the row. This close initial spacing helps ensure a good stand and allows the plants to slightly support one another. The final distance between individual plants should be between 4 and 6 inches.
The distance between adjacent rows is a consideration for bush types, especially to allow for cultivation and air circulation. Rows should be spaced 24 to 36 inches (2 to 3 feet) apart. This spacing accommodates the lateral spread of the bush and provides room for harvesting without damaging the foliage.
Semi-vining and vining varieties require more room to accommodate their spreading nature. For these types, the in-row spacing should be wider, targeting a final distance of 8 to 10 inches between plants. This greater distance prevents overcrowding and allows the plants to sprawl effectively.
The space between rows for semi-vining and vining peas should be 36 to 48 inches (3 to 4 feet). Wider rows are necessary to prevent the long runners from crossing into the next row. Proper row spacing improves air circulation to minimize the spread of common fungal diseases.
An alternative method for small gardens is planting in clusters, often referred to as hills. This involves planting three to six seeds together in a small group. If using this method, the centers of these hills should be spaced 2 to 3 feet apart.
Post-Planting Management
Thinning the seedlings is necessary to achieve optimal final spacing after the plants have emerged. Thinning should occur when seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves and are about three to four inches tall. This involves removing the weakest seedlings to ensure the remaining plants have sufficient resources for growth.
For bush varieties, thinning ensures plants are spaced 4 to 6 inches apart, matching the recommended final density. Removing excess plants reduces competition for sunlight, soil moisture, and nutrients. This promotes the development of robust plants.
The initial spacing decision dictates the need for support structures for vining varieties. Vining types require trellises, stakes, or a sturdy fence to climb. Row spacing must allow for the installation and maintenance of these trellises, which guide growth upward and keep pods off the ground.
Managing weeds is important, especially when the pea plants are small. Weeds compete directly with the peas for resources, negating the benefits of careful spacing. Applying a layer of mulch, such as clean straw or hay, helps suppress weed growth and maintains consistent soil moisture.